Fatigue

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Fatigue is mental and physical exhaustion that does not get better with rest. Fatigue may make daily activities difficult or cause extreme sleepiness. It is normal to feel tired sometimes, but long-term fatigue may be a sign of serious illness.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Seek care immediately if:

You have chest pain.

You have difficulty breathing.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

You have a cough that gets worse, or does not go away.

You see blood in your bowel movement.

You have numbness or tingling around your mouth or in an arm or leg.

You faint, feel dizzy, or have vision changes.

You have swelling in your lymph nodes.

You are a woman and have vaginal bleeding that is not normal for you, or is not expected.

You lose weight without trying, or you have trouble eating.

You feel weak or have muscle pain.

You have pain or swelling in your joints.

Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:

You may need more tests, and your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them.

Manage your fatigue:

Your symptoms may get better without treatment. You will receive treatment for any health conditions that may be causing your fatigue. The following can help you manage your fatigue:

Keep a fatigue diary. Include anything that makes you feel more tired or less tired.

Exercise as directed. Exercise can help you feel more alert. Ask your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you.

Keep a regular sleep schedule. Go to bed at the same time every night, and limit naps.

Limit caffeine and alcohol. These can make it difficult to fall or stay asleep. Women should limit alcohol to 1 drink a day. Men should limit alcohol to 2 drinks a day. A drink of alcohol is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of liquor. Ask your healthcare provider how much caffeine is safe for you.

Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause lung damage and increase fatigue. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.